Which is better for panic disorder: escitalopram oxalate tablets or diazepam?

Nov 24, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Baohua

Introduction

Diazepam is suitable for rapid relief of acute panic attacks, while escitalopram oxalate tablets are more appropriate for long-term prevention of panic episodes. In the event of an acute panic attack—such as sudden intense fear, chest tightness, or difficulty breathing—diazepam acts quickly, alleviating physical and emotional discomfort within a short time after administration and effectively controlling symptoms promptly.

Generally, diazepam is suitable for rapidly relieving acute panic attacks, while escitalopram oxalate tablets are more appropriate for long-term prevention of panic episodes. The two medications differ in their primary roles in managing panic disorder. If you have concerns, it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider in advance. Detailed analysis is as follows:

When experiencing an acute episode of panic disorder—such as sudden intense fear, chest tightness, or difficulty breathing—diazepam acts quickly. It can alleviate physical and emotional discomfort within a short time after administration, effectively controlling symptoms during an attack, thus better meeting the need for immediate symptom relief.

For long-term prevention of recurrent panic attacks or for improving anxiety states between episodes, escitalopram oxalate tablets are more suitable. Although its effects develop more slowly (typically noticeable after 2–4 weeks), it steadily regulates neurotransmitter levels, reduces the frequency of panic attacks, and with prolonged use helps maintain emotional stability and lower the risk of relapse.

The choice between these two medications should be made by a physician based on an assessment of the frequency and severity of panic attacks. During treatment, patients must strictly follow medical instructions and should not discontinue or adjust the dosage without guidance. If any emotional disturbances or physical side effects occur, prompt medical consultation is necessary to review and adjust the treatment plan.

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What are the differences between estazolam tablets and diazepam tablets?

The differences between estazolam tablets and diazepam tablets generally include potency and onset time, primary clinical indications, duration of action, metabolic pathways and excretion rates, and adverse reaction profiles. Estazolam tablets have relatively stronger potency and take effect more rapidly after oral administration, typically producing sedative-hypnotic or anxiolytic effects within one hour; diazepam tablets have slightly weaker potency and a somewhat slower onset of action.

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Can sodium phenobarbital and diazepam be used together?

It is not recommended to use sodium phenobarbital and diazepam together on your own. If these two drugs are self-administered simultaneously for common symptoms such as insomnia or anxiety, their combined central nervous system depressant effects may lead to additive sedation, potentially causing excessive drowsiness, dizziness, respiratory depression, and other serious adverse effects. Additionally, this practice increases the risk of drug dependence, and withdrawal symptoms are likely to occur after discontinuation following long-term use, which is detrimental to health.

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What are the fast-acting sleep-inducing medications for mental illness?

Medications that can help psychiatric patients fall asleep quickly include zopiclone tablets, estazolam tablets, alprazolam tablets, diazepam injection, and midazolam injection. These drugs are strictly controlled and should only be used for insomnia associated with specific mental disorders. If insomnia is accompanied by severe emotional disturbances, hallucinations, or suicidal tendencies, prompt medical attention is recommended.

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How long after discontinuing diazepam will dizziness stop?

After discontinuation of diazepam (clinically referring generally to diazepam tablets), dizziness symptoms usually resolve within about 3 days in most cases, although some patients may experience symptoms for 1–2 weeks. If the patient is in good physical condition, has received an appropriate dosage, and has tapered off the medication properly, dizziness typically begins to gradually subside around 3 days after stopping the drug. Such patients tend to metabolize the medication more rapidly and have shorter recovery times.